Glatteis GmbH

Glatteis GmbH is a public relations and communications consultancy based in Jenins, Switzerland, a small municipality in the canton of Grisons. Founded in 2017, the firm specialises in a niche but increasingly critical area of communications: managing and resolving conflicts that arise around land use and development projects. The agency’s core expertise lies in analysing the social acceptance of proposed construction or infrastructure projects and then steering the communicative process to help these projects move forward successfully.

Specialist Expertise in Use Conflict Communication

The German-language short description of Glatteis GmbH translates to “Glatteis analyses projects and evaluates their feasibility in terms of social acceptance. Glatteis steers the communicative process so that construction projects can be successfully realised.” This focus on “Nutzungskonflikten” – use conflicts – sets the agency apart from generalist PR firms. Whether the conflict involves a new housing development, a wind farm, a transport link, or a commercial facility, Glatteis GmbH applies strategic communication to address stakeholder concerns, mitigate opposition, and build the public consent necessary for project approval. The agency’s work is grounded in the recognition that technical and legal feasibility alone is insufficient; projects must also be socially sustainable.

How They Apply Their Communication Strategy

Glatteis GmbH approaches each mandate by first conducting a thorough analysis of the project’s potential social and political friction points. This involves mapping stakeholders, understanding local sentiment, and identifying the key narratives that could either support or derail the project. From this foundation, the agency designs and executes a tailored communication plan. This plan typically encompasses early and transparent dialogue with residents, authorities, and interest groups, as well as proactive media relations and crisis communication if opposition escalates. The goal is not to “sell” a project but to create a constructive conversation that addresses legitimate concerns while clearly articulating the project’s benefits. By managing expectations and fostering trust, Glatteis GmbH helps developers and public bodies reduce delays and avoid costly legal battles.

Core Services Offered by Glatteis GmbH

While the firm’s service list is focused, it covers the full spectrum of communications needed for contentious development projects. Based on their stated expertise in public relations and communications services, their likely capabilities include:

• Social acceptance and feasibility analyses for construction and infrastructure projects
• Strategic communication planning for land-use and development conflicts
• Stakeholder mapping, engagement, and dialogue facilitation
• Crisis communication and reputation management during public opposition
• Media relations and press strategy for complex local issues
• Public consultation and community outreach programme design
• Risk communication and message development for sensitive topics

Who They Work With

Glatteis GmbH is a good fit for developers, real estate companies, public authorities, and infrastructure operators who are planning projects in Switzerland that may face local resistance. The agency is particularly well-suited to clients in the construction, energy, transport, and public sectors who need to navigate the delicate balance between development and community interests. Because of their location in Jenins, Grisons, they have a strong understanding of the Swiss political and planning landscape, including the direct democratic processes that can empower local opposition. For any organisation that needs to build social licence for a physical project, Glatteis GmbH offers a focused, fact-based, and process-oriented approach to communications that prioritises long-term project success over short-term public relations wins. Their work is most valuable when the path to approval is uncertain and the stakes for community relations are high.